Trevor Ford: The Authorised Biography by Neil Palmer is an enchanting tale of arguably the greatest Welsh footballer to ever live. It is a story of hard work, perseverance, and fighting for what you believe in.
Ford was among the first football stars to take a stand for players’ rights and salaries. All of those millionaire players today certainly owe a debt of gratitude to Ford; he began a movement that so many have benefitted from. He said no to the status quo in an era where many were afraid to question anything and too willing to accept whatever they have been given.
Ford was a superstar long before today’s successful generation of Welsh footballers. He laid a foundation of greatness that others like Gareth Bale, Ryan Giggs, Mark Hughes, Aaron Ramsey, Gary Speed, Neville Southall, and Ian Rush carried forward. He was a brilliant player, one that was extraordinarily tough and graceful as the same time.
Palmer’s storytelling skills are legendary and take you back to a different time, a time when Ford was a trendsetter and a gamechanger. It was also a time before massive TV deals, endorsements, and even average footballers making millions. Ford represented a purity and quality you won’t find today and it’s great to hear about his journey. You’ll get to see the way that football in Wales, England, and even the Netherlands used to be. You’ll also get to see what international football used to look like. The book keeps his memory, and more importantly, his legacy alive.
Amberley has consistently found a way to find great books to publish. Add this one to your must-have list; you won’t regret it. It is a wonderful trip down memory lane and a nostalgic look back at what football used to be.
Personally I am quite envious of those that got to see the great Trevor Ford play, but getting to read this wonderful book is the next best thing. It is definitely one of our favorite books we’ve encountered this year.
